Drug Crimes in Wisconsin

There are different types of drug crimes depending on many circumstances. The law will categorize the crime based upon the class of drug, called Schedules. The three Schedules according to the law in Wisconsin are: medicinal use, potential for abuse, and potential for dependence. The major drug crime categories are: possession, distribution, trafficking, manufacturing, operating a house where drugs are bought and sold (“drug house”), and fraud with prescription drugs. These crimes can all carry different sentencing guidelines depending upon the severity of the crime.

Drug possession is somewhat self explanatory: if a person has any type of drug with them, including prescription drugs that are not prescribed to them, they can be charged with drug possession. If a passenger in your car has drugs, you can be charged as an accessory to a drug crime. Distribution of drugs is the intention to import drugs into the country or sell them once they have already arrived. Drug trafficking is similar to distribution but is more serious, since the defendants are usually involved on a grand scale and may be liable for an entire drug ring operation. Drug trafficking can extend across many jurisdictions and level of law enforcement, such as local police and federal drug agents.

Manufacturing drugs can occur with something such as methamphetamine, which is typically “cooked” in someone’s home kitchen. This substance is highly toxic and dangerous, and defendants can be charged with additional crimes if innocent people, such as children or neighbors, are harmed because of it. Knowingly buying or selling drugs out of your place of residence can constitute running a drug house, which is a serious crime.

Some types of prescription drugs, such as painkillers or anti-anxiety medicines, can be very addictive. Many people will buy or sell them illegally without a prescription, which can be just as serious as illegal drugs. In addition to harming themselves, they can make it difficult for those who legitimately need the drugs through stricter laws and regulations to prevent drug seeking.

When charged with a drug crime, a strong defense is crucial for winning the case. A criminal defense attorney should be contacted immediately.